NEW BEGINNING, NEW INSPIRATION
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Pukyong National University Partners with Samsung Electronics to Establish an AI/DT-Based “Smart Campus”- On the 7th, Pukyong National University and Samsung Electronics sign an MOU on smart campus collaborationPukyong National University has partnered with Samsung Electronics to establish an AI/DT-based smart campus solution, the first of its kind in Korea. On the morning of April 7, the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the university’s main administration building in Daeyeon-dong, Busan, to promote joint research and development and cooperation for building a smart campus. At the signing ceremony, President Sang-Hoon Bae of Pukyong National University and Lim Sung-Taek, Head of Samsung Electronics Korea, agreed to collaborate on investment, technology development, performance verification, and service implementation required for the “smart campus solution” at the university’s Daeyeon Campus. They also agreed to further expand their cooperation to include AI/DT solution business initiatives in the future. The smart campus solution to be implemented at Pukyong National University by Samsung Electronics consists of three main components: the “b.IoT solution,” which integrates and operates key building facilities―such as HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), lighting, power, and renewable energy systems―on a single platform; “SmartThings Pro,” a cloud-based maintenance solution that remotely monitors HVAC systems and predicts and analyzes potential failures; and a “DT (Digital Twin) solution,” which creates a virtual 3D model of actual buildings to analyze and forecast operational data in areas such as energy, environment, and security, thereby maximizing operational efficiency. These solutions represent next-generation technologies that leverage cloud, IoT, and AI-based optimization algorithms to simultaneously achieve optimal building operation environments and energy efficiency across campus facilities. In recent years, Samsung Electronics has carried out demonstration projects applying its AI-based b.IoT solutions to large office buildings, research institutes, and factories/plants both in Korea and abroad, confirming annual energy savings of 15-18% (based on IPMVP standards). This agreement marks the first attempt to expand b.IoT solutions from a single-building model to the integrated operation of multiple campus buildings. University campuses, which consist of dozens of buildings encompassing lecture halls, offices, laboratories, and research facilities equipped with advanced equipment, have been identified as optimal environments for verifying the effectiveness of b.IoT solutions. Accordingly, Samsung Electronics has decided to establish the smart campus solution at Pukyong National University―where joint research has already been conducted―as a testbed. Under this agreement, the two institutions will first implement the b.IoT, Digital Twin, and SmartThings Pro solutions in five buildings on Pukyong National University’s Daeyeon Campus in a phased manner, and conduct integrated operation demonstrations across various domains, including air conditioning systems, which are critical to energy and environmental management, as well as power (including solar energy), lighting, security, and networks. Over the next three years, they will carry out technology validation, including the development of AI-based optimal control algorithms and IoT solutions, as well as virtual simulations using digital twin technology, along with performance verification. Based on these outcomes, the project will be gradually expanded to newly constructed buildings and eventually across the entire campus, with the goal of establishing Korea’s leading AI-based smart campus. To this end, Pukyong National University plans to establish a joint AI research center (tentatively named the AI Convergence Innovation Institute) in collaboration with Samsung Electronics. Faculty members from departments such as Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineering, Architectural Engineering, and Fire Protection Engineering will participate in industry-academic joint research projects, with plans to further expand participation to related fields such as Mechanical Engineering and Design. Through this collaboration, the university also aims to cultivate specialized professionals with practical expertise in the field. In Busan and across industry, expectations are growing that this agreement will serve as a significant milestone for the development of smart campuses and the wider adoption of eco-friendly energy-saving technologies.
대외홍보센터 (2026-04-09)COUNT 87Identifying Next-Generation Semiconductor Memory Material Candidates Using Generative AI- Joint research by Pukyong National University and KIST proposes new ferroelectric materials applicable to next-generation semiconductor devices; published in Advanced ScienceProfessor Yeo Byung-Chul of the Department of Energy Resources Engineering at Pukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) announced that, through joint research with Dr. Lee Hyun-Jae, Dr. Kang Sung-Woo, and Dr. Lee Jung-Hoon of the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), the team has identified candidate materials for next-generation semiconductor memory using generative artificial intelligence (AI). The research findings were published in the international journal Advanced Science (Impact Factor: 14.1). To overcome the limitations of conventional semiconductor memory material discovery-previously restricted to a small number of materials-the research team proposed a new materials design framework that combines a diffusion model-based generative AI for atomic structure generation with computational science techniques. Using the generative AI model, the team generated a large number of candidate crystal structures and applied a multi-step validation process integrating various machine learning methods with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. As a result, the research team identified two promising materials-Ca₃P₂ (calcium phosphide) and LiCdP (lithium cadmium phosphide). Both materials exhibit electrical insulation properties while also demonstrating characteristics of ferroelectric materials, which can switch their electric polarization states in response to external stimuli, confirming their potential as next-generation memory devices. In particular, LiCdP showed material properties comparable to-or even surpassing-those of existing high-performance polarization materials. Meanwhile, Ca₃P₂ is significant in that it presents a previously unreported low-temperature crystal structure candidate. Furthermore, detailed electronic structure calculations revealed that both materials hold strong potential for energy applications, such as photocurrent devices based on solar energy. This study demonstrates that generative AI can be used to discover previously unknown functional materials and is expected to serve as a key enabling technology for the development of next-generation semiconductor memory, energy devices, and advanced electronic components. The research team stated, “This study shows that new ferroelectric materials can be efficiently explored by combining generative AI with computational science,” adding, “We will continue to pursue research on the development of next-generation semiconductor and energy materials.” Meanwhile, this research was supported by the Nano and Materials Technology Development Program (Materials Global Young Connect / National Strategic Technology Materials Development_HUB) of the National Research Foundation of Korea, funded by the Ministry of Science and ICT.
대외홍보센터 (2026-04-09)COUNT 60Pukyong National University Student Significantly Improves Accuracy of Urban Wind Corridor Prediction- Master’s student Lee Hyun-Jong and Professor Kim Jae-Jin’s team successfully implement “Cut-cell” technology- Published in the international journal Sustainable Cities and Society Lee Hyun-Jong, a first-year master’s student in the Major in Environmental Atmospheric Sciences at Pukyong National University, has successfully implemented “Cut-cell” technology that significantly improves the accuracy of urban wind corridor prediction using a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model. Lee Hyun-Jong (first author) and Professor Kim Jae-Jin (corresponding author) published their paper, ‘Enhancing geometric fidelity and wind-field prediction accuracy in complex urban environments using a Cartesian cut-cell CFD model,’ in the globally renowned journal in urban microclimate and thermal environment studies,
Professor Cho Gye-Yong of Pukyong National University Develops “Active Separator Technology” to Enhance the Stability of High-Energy Lithium Batteries
- Published in an international journal
A research team led by Professor Cho Gye-Yong of the Department of Energy and Chemical Materials Engineering at Pukyong National University has developed an active separator technology that can enhance the stability and lifespan of next-generation high-energy lithium batteries. This technology is particularly effective in mitigating lithium-ion concentration gradients and electrode degradation, which commonly occur in high-energy batteries, especially from the separator perspective.
Lithium-based batteries are widely regarded as a core technology for next-generation energy applications, including electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems (ESS). However, during repeated charge-discharge cycles, imbalances in ion transport and electrolyte decomposition reactions can occur, leading to performance degradation and safety issues. In particular, byproducts such as hydrogen fluoride (HF) generated during the decomposition of the electrolyte salt (LiPF6) are known to continuously degrade internal battery interfaces. To address these issues, the research team designed an active separator structure capable of controlling the transport behavior of electrolyte anions (PF6-). This separator is based on a fluorinated polymer material with high electronegativity on its surface, combined with amine-based functional groups exhibiting cationic characteristics. Through this design, it electrostatically regulates the transport properties of PF6- anions in the electrolyte and controls their electrical state, thereby limiting the formation of PF5, which exhibits strong acidity. As a result, it effectively suppresses continuous electrolyte decomposition reactions. Analysis of the operating mechanism of this separator revealed that, compared to conventional polypropylene (PP) separators, the lithium-ion transference number increased by approximately twofold, while the lithium-ion diffusion coefficient improved by about threefold. In addition, the interfacial layers (SEI/CEI) formed between the electrode and electrolyte were found to maintain a thin and uniform structure even after long-term cycling. Owing to these characteristics, batteries incorporating this separator demonstrated stable performance not only under high-temperature and high-voltage conditions, but also during long-term charge-discharge cycles across various cathode materials. The batteries also operated stably under high-rate charge-discharge conditions, and symmetric cell experiments using a lithium metal anode confirmed long-term stability with uniform lithium plating formation. Park Jang-Woo, the first author of the study, stated, “This research demonstrates that separators can go beyond acting as a physical barrier and actively control the ionic environment inside batteries.” He added, “While solutions to this issue have traditionally been proposed at the electrode and electrolyte levels, this study presents a new design strategy in which the separator regulates the behavior of electrolyte anions, reduces side reactions within the battery, and efficiently guides ion transport, thereby enhancing the stability of next-generation high-energy lithium batteries.” This research was supported by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the National Research Foundation of Korea. The findings were published online in March 2026 in the international journal Advanced Functional Materials under the title 'Active Separators Featuring PF6- Anion-Regulating Interface for Long-term Stable Li-based Batteries.'
Pukyong National University Enters Rankings in Five Fields for the First Time in the ‘2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject’- Newly ranked in the 300-600 range in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Business & Management, Economics, and Chemistry Pukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) has been recognized for its global standing as a research-oriented university after entering the rankings in five subject areas for the first time in the ‘2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject.’ According to the results released on March 25 by the UK-based global university ranking organization QS (Quacquarelli Symonds), the university newly entered the rankings in five disciplines: Chemical Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Business & Management, Economics, and Chemistry. QS annually evaluates leading universities worldwide based on five indicators-academic reputation, employer reputation, citations per paper, H-index, and international research network (IRN)-and publishes rankings across 55 specific disciplines within five broad subject areas. In this year’s results, Pukyong National University was ranked 301-350 in Chemical Engineering, 451-500 in Environmental Sciences, 551-600 in Business & Management, 551-700 in Economics, and 601-700 in Chemistry. These outcomes reflect the university’s research strengths in its specialized fields, including advanced engineering and marine, fisheries, and environmental studies. Pukyong National University was previously ranked first among 25 national universities in Korea in terms of research funding secured per full-time faculty member, according to last year’s official disclosure through the Higher Education in Korea (University Information Disclosure System). With this latest global ranking, the university has once again demonstrated its strong research capabilities. Building on these results, Pukyong National University plans to further strengthen its global research competitiveness as it marks its 80th anniversary this year, by advancing key innovation strategies, including the development of a research-oriented university, an AX innovation university, and a globally innovative university.
대외홍보센터 (2026-04-09)COUNT 132Pukyong National University and the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries Host a UN FAO Global Training Program- Two-week program starting on the 16th; 20 government officials from Asia-Pacific island nations participate The opening ceremony of the “Korea？FAO Global Training Program Busan Session”, jointly organized by Pukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae), the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), was held on March 16 at the Mirae Building of Pukyong National University. This global training program is an international capacity-building course designed to support the implementation of the Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA), aimed at preventing and eliminating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. Hosted by Pukyong National University’s Overseas Fisheries Cooperation Center (Director Young-Mok Kim), the two-week program brings together 20 government officials from Asia-Pacific Island countries, who will participate in training on establishing national systems and implementing international standards required for compliance with global regulations. Participants will receive training on monitoring, control, and surveillance systems required to combat IUU fishing, as well as port inspection procedures, document verification techniques, and the use of the FAO Global Information Exchange System (GIES). The program also includes practical exercises in port inspections and law enforcement based on real-world cases. During the training period, participants will attend lectures and field-based learning programs provided by leading institutions, including Pukyong National University, the East Sea Fisheries Management Service, the National Fishery Products Quality Management Service, the Korea Fisheries Resources Agency, and the Korea Maritime Institute. Young-Mok Kim, Director of the Overseas Fisheries Cooperation Center (Dean of the College of Fisheries Science), stated, “This program is an important initiative for strengthening the implementation of international norms and enhancing trust in national fisheries governance. Through practice-oriented training and case-based discussions, we aim to strengthen participants’ practical decision-making capabilities required for inspections and enforcement.”
Pukyong National University Holds Completion Ceremony for Invitation-Based Training Program to Strengthen Tanzania’s Aquaculture Capacity- Fifteen Tanzanian fisheries professionals complete a 14-day intensive training program on advanced aquaculture technologies and policiesThe Institute for International Cooperation in Fisheries and Ocean Development at Pukyong National University (Director Won-Gyu Park) held a completion ceremony on March 12 at the Leadership Hall of the Dongwon Jang Bogo Building for an invitation-based training program to strengthen aquaculture capacity in Tanzania. This training was conducted as part of the third year of the “Capacity Building Project for Aquaculture in Zanzibar, Tanzania,” supported by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), and took place over a two-week period starting on February 28. A total of 15 participants―including one Assistant Minister from the Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries of Zanzibar, Tanzania, as well as aquaculture technicians from the Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries, the Zanzibar Marine Aquaculture Center, and the Zanzibar Fisheries and Marine Resources Research Institute―(1 senior official and 14 working-level staff)―completed the program and received their certificates. The training program was conducted in three phases―an invitation-based program in the first year, a local training program in the second year, and another invitation-based program in the third year. As part of the program, participants visited institutions in the marine and fisheries sector, including the Busan Fisheries Resources Research Institute, where they directly observed Korea’s aquaculture technologies and policy operations, thereby enhancing their policy, technical, and field application capabilities. Meanwhile, the Institute for International Cooperation in Fisheries and Ocean Development at Pukyong National University has been carrying out various initiatives in cooperation with the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and KOICA to transfer Korea’s advanced fisheries technologies to developing countries and distant-water partner nations.
Pukyong National University to Train Employees of Busan Fisheries Companies as “Blue Food” Master’s Graduates- Establishes a contract-based graduate program, “Blue Food Smart Systems Major,” for working professionals- Develops 10 specialized courses; aims to cultivate 40 master’s-level professionals over three yearsPukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) announced that it has established a contract-based graduate program, the “Blue Food Smart Systems Major,” to advance the regional fisheries and food industry and strengthen the expertise of working professionals, with full-scale operation beginning in the first semester of this year. This program, jointly established by Pukyong National University’s Industry？Academic Cooperation Foundation and the RISE Program Office, is a master’s-level contract-based program for working professionals. It is designed to provide specialized education that enables employees of regional fisheries and food companies to solve real-world industrial problems and develop competencies in smart manufacturing processes. The Blue Food Smart Systems Major is operated based on Pukyong National University’s Department of Food Science and Engineering (Chair Professor Gil-Bo Shim). Moving beyond simple seafood processing, the program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates smart system management and next-generation food engineering technologies to create value in “Blue Food,” which emphasizes sustainable and healthy food sources. Reflecting future trends in the fisheries industry and on-site demand, the RISE Program Office has developed 10 specialized courses, including △Advanced Topics in Blue Food Industry Trends, △K-Blue Food Export Strategies and Response Measures, and △Advanced Topics in New Product Development. It has also supported the program’s stable operation by establishing two dedicated classrooms and providing advanced educational infrastructure. In addition, leading regional fisheries and food companies, Deokhwa Food Co., Ltd. and The Sauce Korea Co., Ltd., are participating in the operation of the program, supporting the enhancement of practical competencies for working professionals and providing industry-linked education. This initiative has established a foundation that enables employees to systematically develop their expertise while balancing work and academic studies. Through this contract-based program, which will be operated over the next three years starting this year, Pukyong National University plans to cultivate a total of 40 master’s-level professionals in Blue Food. Following the first intake in the current semester, the university will also recruit new students for the second semester in May. An official from the RISE Program Office at Pukyong National University stated, “By actively leveraging the university’s expertise in fisheries and food sciences along with the full support of the RISE Program Office, we will strive to make the Blue Food Smart Systems Major a leading platform for cultivating professionals who will drive the digital transformation of the fisheries and food industry.”
“I hope Pukyong National University will serve as a driving force representing Busan, the maritime capital, and propel its leap onto the global stage.” President Sang-Hoon Bae of Pukyong National University has donated KRW 100 million to support the university’s development in celebration of its 80th anniversary. On the morning of March 16, President Sang-Hoon Bae held a development fund donation ceremony at the president’s reception room in Pukyong National University’s main administration building, joining as the eighth contributor to the university’s ongoing 80th Anniversary Donation Relay. President Sang-Hoon Bae stated, “Our university was founded as Korea’s first higher education institution in fisheries and a modern industrial technology institute and has grown into a leading national university through the historic decision to become the first comprehensive national university formed through integration.” He added, “Building on our long-standing academic tradition and spirit of innovation, we will continue to respond proactively to the changing times and strive to leap forward as a strong national university that leads future society and industry.” Prior to this, the 80th Anniversary Donation Relay of Pukyong National University had been joined by several contributors, including former Alumni Association President Yong-Pyo Jung, CEO of KAM Co., Ltd.; Pil-Sun Park, CEO of Seyoung Food Co., Ltd.; the PKNU CEO Academy Alumni Association; current Alumni Association President Se-Ho Park, Chairman of Wooju Sealings Group; Dae-Su Geum, Chairman of Dream Jobggi Education Networks; BNK Financial Group; and Dae-Gyu Jung, CEO of Enrich Talent Education Institute Co., Ltd.. President Sang-Hoon Bae joined the donation relay as the eighth contributor, reflecting the symbolic significance of being the eighth president since the university’s integration. President Sang-Hoon Bae emphasized, “As Pukyong National University marks the historic milestones of its 80th anniversary and the 30th anniversary of its integration this year, we are taking another step forward based on our vision of becoming ‘a strong university that opens the future through courage, innovation, and challenge.’ We ask for your continued interest and support for the university’s efforts toward innovation as we move into a new era.” Pukyong National University plans to utilize the development fund raised through the donation relay to advance its future vision, including the establishment of a research-oriented university, an AX innovation university, and a globally innovative university, while continuing to serve as a key partner in the development of Busan as a maritime capital.
대외홍보센터 (2026-03-26)COUNT 111Pukyong National University Holds “Dachae” Event to Mark Its 80th Anniversary and Announce Its Future Vision- Embarking on a “Great Journey & New Leap Forward”; development fund donation relay continuesPukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) will hold a series of events this year, including commemorative programs and a future vision declaration, to mark its 80th anniversary and the 30th anniversary of its integration. Pukyong National University was established through the historic integration in 1996 of Busan National Industrial University founded in 1924 and Busan National Fisheries University founded in 1941, becoming the first comprehensive national university in Korea formed through such a merger. Although the histories of the two predecessor institutions date back much further, Pukyong National University designates 1946, the period following the end of Japanese colonial rule, as its official founding year―making this year its 80th anniversary. For the same reason, several national universities in Korea, including Seoul National University, are also celebrating their 80th anniversary this year. In particular, Pukyong National University is recognized as the first university in Busan. Its predecessor, Busan National Fisheries University, originated from the Busan Fisheries High School established in 1941, which was not only the first higher education institution in Busan at the time, but also Korea’s first higher education institution specializing in fisheries. This fact is also recorded in the publication 「Busan Guinness 125 Selections」 issued by the Busan Metropolitan Government. ▷ What Events Are Planned? To mark its 80th anniversary, Pukyong National University is promoting more than 30 commemorative programs across various areas, including academic research, regional engagement, events, performances and exhibitions, public relations, and related initiatives. Seasonal events such as the Pink Campus program and the spring festival (Daedongje) are expected to be held on a larger and more vibrant scale to celebrate the milestone anniversary. In addition, the university museum will host special exhibitions themed around history, including the ongoing coelacanth-themed exhibition. To promote the 80th anniversary both internally and externally, the university is carrying out various initiatives, including bus wrapping campaigns, emblem production, merchandise development, and a congratulatory relay challenge. In May, a series of major events will be held, including the anniversary ceremony, the future vision declaration ceremony, special lectures by distinguished speakers, and an academic competition. In addition, the university plans to establish and operate 17 Scenic Spots of the PKNU Campus, utilizing notable on-campus locations such as the PKNU Honor Grove, a dedicated area featuring commemorative tree plantings by distinguished figures. ▷ Future Vision Declaration & Ongoing Development Fund Donation Relay Pukyong National University aims to use its 80th anniversary as a turning point for leap and innovation, advancing toward a future together with all stakeholders. The university envisions itself as a platform where young people can realize their dreams, while continuing to grow through connections with the local community, the nation, and the global stage. To this end, under the slogan “A Strong University Opening the Future through Courage, Innovation, and Challenge,” the university plans to implement its innovation vision, including the development of a research-oriented university, an AX innovation university, and a globally innovative university. A development fund donation relay to support the university’s next leap forward is also continuing. Following a KRW 300 million donation by Yong-Pyo Jung, former Alumni Association President and CEO of KAM Co., Ltd., additional contributions have been made, including KRW 150 million from Pil-Sun Park, CEO of Seyoung Food Co., Ltd.; KRW 100 million from the PKNU CEO Academy Alumni Association; KRW 200 million from Se-Ho Park, Chairman of Wooju Sealings Group and current Alumni Association President; KRW 10 million from Dae-Su Geum, Chairman of Dream Jobggi Education Networks; and KRW 30 million from BNK Financial Group. As donations continue to support the university’s innovation and future development beyond its 80th anniversary, those interested in contributing may contact the Development Fund Office at +82-51-629-7843 or 7300.
“Moisture Cycles Significantly Influence Urban Climate”: Development of the Next-Generation Urban Climate Model ‘BECLOUD’- Research team led by Professor Kim Jae-Jin of Pukyong National University develops a next-generation CFD model that precisely simulates urban moisture and phase-change processes- Published in the international journal
Pukyong National University Professor Kim Jong-Hyeong ‘Draws Attention’ for Research on Eco-Friendly Semiconductors and Ultra-Sensitive Sensors- Consecutive publications in SCIE journals; global research achievements expanded with support from the RISE programProfessor Kim Jong-Hyeong (Major in Materials Engineering) at Pukyong National University has recently gained international attention by presenting a series of notable research achievements in the fields of eco-friendly semiconductor materials and next-generation sensor technologies. Professor Kim recently published a paper titled “Dissolution study of biodegradable Magnesium Silicide thin films for transient electronic applications” in the renowned SCIE-indexed international journal
‘Blocking Pain Signals Without Drugs’ Featured as a Cover Article in an International Journal- Research team led by Professor Sung Min-Ho of Pukyong National University develops a biodegradable heat-based technology for blocking neural pain signals- Published in the materials science journal
“A Click of the Switch Selectively Cuts Target Molecular Bonds”- Pukyong National University and RWTH Aachen University (Germany) Develop a DNA-Based Ultrasound Molecular Switch- Selective bond cleavage achieved even under low-intensity ultrasound; expected applications in drug delivery and biosensorsOpening New Possibilities for DNA-Based Ultrasound Mechanophores A research team led by Professor Kwak Min-Seok of the Department of Chemistry at Pukyong National University, in collaboration with the team of Professor Andreas Herrmann at RWTH Aachen University (Germany), has developed a DNA-based molecular switch (mechanophore) platform (DNA-MP-DNA) designed to selectively cleave specific molecular bonds when activated by the mechanical ‘force signal’ of ultrasound. This technology has attracted attention for simultaneously addressing the low reaction efficiency and non-specific bond cleavage commonly observed in conventional polymer-based ultrasound mechanochemistry. Previously, mechanophores were connected to flexible polymer chains to transmit ultrasonic forces. However, because of the flexible structure of polymers, the ultrasonic energy tended to disperse, making it difficult to deliver force precisely to the target bond. As a result, unintended bonds could break first or reaction times could become prolonged. To overcome these limitations, the research team focused on the DNA double helix, which combines structural stability with partial flexibility. Compared with conventional polymers, DNA’s higher structural stability makes it more suitable for concentrating ultrasonic energy on the mechanophore site. Development of a Precision Platform Achieving Selective Cleavage Within 15 Minutes The research team designed a platform in which DNA strands of 100？1,000 base pairs (bp) are attached on both sides of the mechanophore. Experimental results showed that when the DNA structure reached a sufficient length (250 bp or longer), the cleavage rate at the mechanophore site reached about 99.9% within 15 minutes. DNA sequencing analysis confirmed that the DNA itself remained intact, while mass spectrometry precisely identified the cleavage location and pattern. Professor Kwak Min-Seok explained, “If conventional polymer mechanophores are like a ‘hammer,’ DNA mechanophores are closer to a delicate ‘surgical scalpel.’ We believe this technology has strong potential to change the paradigm of mechanochemistry research.” Potential as an Integrated Platform for Diverse Mechanophores This platform also offers a significant advantage in that mechanophores with different structures can be easily exchanged, allowing their performance to be systematically compared and evaluated. The research team screened 32 candidate mechanophores using computational analysis (the CoGEF method) and experimentally validated several of them, enabling a systematic analysis of structural differences in reactivity. Stable Operation Even Under Low-Intensity Ultrasound… Expanding Potential for Bio Applications The research team also validated the platform under various ultrasound conditions, including laboratory equipment (20 kHz), ultrasonic cleaners (40 kHz), and cosmetic devices (1 MHz). Notably, in a low-intensity 1 MHz ultrasound experiment conducted under skin-like conditions, the system achieved over 80% selective bond cleavage without causing DNA damage, confirming its potential for practical use under medical ultrasound conditions. The research team plans to expand this platform by integrating it with various biomaterials, such as DNA nanostructures and nanoparticle assemblies, enabling applications including ultrasound-triggered drug delivery systems, ultrasound-based biosensors, and smart therapeutic materials that respond to mechanical stimuli. The study is regarded as particularly significant because it combines DNA technology with polymer mechanochemistry, laying the groundwork for a new research field that enables precise control of molecular reactions using ultrasound. This research was supported by the Nano and Materials Technology Development Program of the Ministry of Science and ICT and the National Research Foundation of Korea, as well as the Future Technology Research Lab and InnoCORE programs of the Ministry of Science and ICT, and the Regional Leading Research Center Program of the Ministry of Education.
Pukyong National University Selected for the Ministry of Science and ICT’s “Research Living Stipend Support Program for Science and Engineering Graduate Students”- Ensures monthly support of KRW 800,000 for master’s students and KRW 1.1 million for doctoral students to help them focus on research Pukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) has been selected as a new participating university in the 2026 Research Living Stipend Support Program for Science and Engineering Graduate Students organized by the Ministry of Science and ICT. On March 3, the ministry announced that eight universities were newly selected for the program: Pukyong National University, Kumoh National Institute of Technology, Dankook University, Incheon National University, Jeonbuk National University, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Korea Aerospace University, and Hongik University. The program was designed to ensure a minimum standard of living for student researchers engaged in research activities and to establish a basic financial safety net. Under the initiative, full-time graduate students in science and engineering receive support if their funding falls below the standard monthly amounts of KRW 800,000 for master’s students and KRW 1.1 million for doctoral students, with the program covering the shortfall. The program will run for a total of eight years, from 2026 to 2033 (2+3+3 years), with this year’s support amounting to KRW 1.757 billion. As of last year, 715 out of 922 full-time graduate students in science and engineering engaged in research activities at Pukyong National University were already receiving stipends above the minimum standard amount. expect this program, the university expects the number of students receiving stipends at or above the standard level to increase further. Pukyong National University plans to complete the agreement with the Ministry of Science and ICT and receive the research funds within this month, establish relevant guidelines and build the necessary system in April, and begin disbursing the research living stipends starting in May. Through this program, Pukyong National university aims to secure greater stability and continuity in graduate student stipends as a research-oriented university, while establishing a comprehensive support system for student researchers that allows them to focus on their research and academic work, thereby further strengthening the competitiveness of science and engineering research.
대외홍보센터 (2026-03-11)COUNT 214Pukyong National University Selected for the “Advanced Industry Talent Development Bootcamp” Program- KRW 7.66 billion in funding to cultivate AI-based smart marine and fisheries talent Pukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) has been selected in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) field for the 2026 Advanced Industry Talent Development Bootcamp Program, jointly organized by the Ministry of Education and the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT). The program is a government-funded initiative in which universities and companies jointly operate short-term, intensive training courses to cultivate practice-oriented professionals who can be immediately deployed in industrial settings. Over the next five years, Pukyong National University will establish an AI-based interdisciplinary talent development system with a total budget of KRW 7.66 billion, including KRW 7.12 billion in national funding, KRW 360 million from the municipal government, and KRW 180 million in university matching funds. Accordingly, the university will launch a new “Artificial Intelligence Bootcamp Convergence Major” beginning in the first semester of the 2026 academic year. Centered on the Big Data Convergence major (Project Director: Professor Noh Maeng-Seok), the program will involve departments in the marine and fisheries fields, including Applied Mathematics, Fisheries, Aquaculture, Fisheries Resources, and Oceanography, offering a practice-oriented curriculum that integrates AI with specialized marine and fisheries industries. Students will strengthen their competencies step by step through minor and double-major options, as well as intermediate and advanced micro-degree programs. A total of 20 companies, including Dongwon Industries Co., Ltd. and Silla Trading Co., Ltd., will participate in the bootcamp, collaborating on curriculum design, project mentoring, and field training. Through industry demand-driven project-based learning, the program aims to strengthen industry relevance and employment linkage. In addition, the university will expand GPU-based training environments and operate intensive seasonal semester programs to enhance students’ project execution capabilities. For those who complete the intermediate and advanced courses, the program will provide scholarship support and linked career programs, offering practical career development opportunities. Pukyong National University plans to link this project with its strategy of “cultivating AI talent specialized for Busan as the maritime capital.” Through this initiative, the university will foster professionals in marine-specialized convergence fields such as smart fisheries, marine big data, autonomous navigation, and intelligent ocean observation, while supplying high-level talent that meets the needs of regional industries. President Sang-Hoon Bae stated, “This selection recognizes Pukyong National University’s capabilities in AI education and research, as well as its strong foundation for industry collaboration.” He added, “By advancing practice-oriented education, we will contribute to technological innovation in the marine and fisheries sectors and to the creation of youth employment opportunities in Busan, the maritime capital.”
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